Saudi Arabia has intensified its efforts to combat illegal residency, arresting 17,880 individuals during a week-long nationwide campaign between December 11th and 17th. The crackdown, announced by the Ministry of Interior on Saturday, targets illegal residents violating the Kingdom’s residency, border security, and labor laws. This action underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing immigration regulations and maintaining national security.
The arrests occurred across the country through joint inspections conducted by security forces and relevant government agencies. Those detained included individuals violating the Residency Law, the Border Security Law, and the Labor Law, with a significant number being processed for deportation. The Ministry of Interior emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards those who facilitate illegal activities.
Saudi Arabia Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Residents
The Ministry of Interior detailed the breakdown of the arrests, revealing 11,190 individuals were found to be in violation of the Residency Law. An additional 3,801 were accused of breaching the Border Security Law, and 2,889 were found to be in violation of the Labor Law. These figures represent a substantial effort to address the issue of undocumented workers and those overstaying their visas.
Deportation and Legal Proceedings
According to the Ministry, 20,282 individuals were referred to their respective diplomatic missions to secure necessary travel documents. Furthermore, 5,080 were assisted in completing travel arrangements, and 12,661 have already been deported from the Kingdom. These numbers indicate a swift and systematic approach to removing individuals found to be in violation of Saudi immigration laws.
The campaign also focused on preventing illegal entry into the country. A total of 1,509 individuals were apprehended while attempting to cross the border, with Yemeni and Ethiopian nationals comprising the vast majority – 44 percent and 55 percent respectively. A smaller number, representing one percent of those attempting to cross, were of other nationalities. Additionally, 40 individuals were arrested attempting to illegally leave the Kingdom.
However, the enforcement isn’t limited to those directly violating immigration laws. The Ministry of Interior also targeted individuals aiding and abetting illegal activity. Fifteen people were arrested for providing transportation, shelter, or employment to those in violation. This demonstrates a broader strategy to disrupt the networks that support undocumented workers.
Severe Penalties for Facilitators
The Saudi government has issued a stern warning regarding the consequences of assisting illegal immigration. Anyone found to be facilitating the illegal entry, transport, shelter, or any other form of assistance to individuals violating residency laws faces penalties of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SR1 million. Vehicles used for transportation and properties used for shelter are also subject to confiscation. This represents a significant escalation in the penalties for such offenses.
The Ministry of Interior is actively encouraging public participation in identifying and reporting violations. Citizens and residents are urged to report any suspected illegal activity by calling 911 in the regions of Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, or 999 and 996 in other regions of the Kingdom. This call for public assistance highlights the importance of community involvement in enforcing immigration regulations.
The recent surge in enforcement activity comes amid broader efforts to regulate the labor market and ensure compliance with Saudi nationalization policies, known as Saudization. These policies aim to increase employment opportunities for Saudi citizens. The crackdown on foreign workers is therefore linked to these wider economic and social goals.
Currently, 29,771 expatriates – 28,198 men and 1,573 women – are undergoing legal procedures. The report indicates that the Ministry of Interior is committed to a thorough and lawful process for all those detained. The focus remains on ensuring due process while enforcing the Kingdom’s immigration laws.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Interior has not announced a specific end date for these intensified inspections. It is expected that enforcement efforts will continue, though the frequency and scale may be adjusted based on the results of the current campaign. Observers will be watching for any changes in policy regarding work permits and visa regulations, as well as the long-term impact of these measures on the Saudi labor market and the broader expatriate community.
